Lionel Messi to remain with Inter Miami, rules out loan move

The speculation surrounding Lionel Messi’s future in Major League Soccer (MLS) has been put to rest as reports confirm that the World Cup-winning star will not be going on loan from Inter Miami during the upcoming winter season.

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While loan deals have been a familiar path for several megastars in MLS, including Thierry Henry and David Beckham, Messi is set to chart a different course.

According to Guillem Balague, Messi, presently 36 years old and on international duty with Argentina, is committed to completing the current MLS season, which concludes on October 22. Following the MLS season, he will continue training to prepare for crucial World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil in November.

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FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA – SEPTEMBER 20: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami looks on before the match between Toronto FC and Inter Miami CF at DRV PNK Stadium on September 20, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)

Messi set for one-month vacation after November World Cup qualifiers

After the intense qualifiers, Messi plans to take a one-month vacation before resuming preparations for the upcoming MLS preseason with Inter Miami. This preseason preparation is in anticipation of the 2024 MLS campaign and, likely, the Copa America hosted in the United States.

While there had been discussions regarding Messi’s potential return to Barcelona or a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League in the Middle East, Balague asserts that such possibilities have been ruled out.

Inter Miami plans to capitalize on Messi’s presence

One intriguing aspect that Balague raises is how Inter Miami will capitalize on Messi’s presence and generate revenue during preseason. Speculations are swirling about the club’s plans, including the possibility of taking Inter Miami on international tours to South America, Asia, or even a high-profile reunion with Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League. There is even speculation about a potential matchup between Inter Miami and the United States Men’s National Team during the off-window January “Camp Cupcake.”

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This decision by Messi adds a unique dimension to the upcoming MLS preseason, making it one of the most intriguing and highly anticipated in the league’s history.

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